Friday 24 June 2011
Today in the heart of Port Hercule, a selection of the world's finest superyachts are lined up along the Quai des États-Unis ready for the first full day of activities at The Rendezvous in Monaco 2011, an annual event for superyacht owners and their families.
The event kicked off yesterday afternoon with a private luncheon for the superyacht owners in attendance on board the host yacht, 64m Felicita West. The luncheon, sponsored by Maybach, allowed owners to socialise with like-minded peers in a privatised setting, berthed alongside some of the most impressive superyachts on the water today. Tony Harris, CEO of Boat International Media welcomed owners to The Rendezvous and Bernard D’Alessandri presented temporary memberships to the Yacht Club de Monaco. A delicious three-course menu was devised especially for the occasion by the decorated chefs at the Fairmont Monte Carlo, and guests were treated to a private performance by world famous Stradivari violinist Benjamin Schmid.
For California native June Grossberg, who has a permanent berth for her 27m motor yacht Volare Ancora in Fontvieille, the performance by Benjamin Schmid was the highlight of Day 1. 'I love classical music and to have a private performance by an artist of Benjamin's caliber in such an intimate setting was a unique experience; one I'll never forget. Combining the beauty of the yachts in this fantastic setting with this performance was just perfect.'
In the evening, all Rendezvous guests were welcomed to the Principality with a Cocktail on the Quai des États-Unis, sponsored by Monaco Tourism and attended by HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco. The champagne continued to flow as owners opened house for the Rendezvous Yacht Hop, inviting guests onboard for canapés and hospitality. Celebrity chefs from the Relais & Chateaux Group joined in the fun and prepared some of their signature dishes onboard participating yachts. Musical entertainment created a wonderful party atmosphere on the dock, as owners and their guests reconnected with old acquaintances and made new friends in Monaco, the glamorous home of superyachting.
As guests strolled from one yacht to the next, they were tempted by the inspired creations of bartending crew participating in the first annual Rendezvous Cocktail Competition. A new addition to the programme this year, crew were set the challenge of creating a unique, vodka based cocktail. An expert panel of judges decided the winner, who will remain secret until the Rendezvous Prize Giving at the Yacht Club de Monaco on Sunday.
Today looks set to be another beautifully sunny day in Monaco - perfect for a day à la plage, as Rendezvous guests prepare for the Cruise in Company to Paloma Beach in St Jean Cap Ferrat.